{"id":12700,"date":"2024-02-13T04:52:16","date_gmt":"2024-02-13T04:52:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/?page_id=12700"},"modified":"2025-03-01T10:59:58","modified_gmt":"2025-03-01T10:59:58","slug":"marine-protected-areas-raja-ampat","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/marine-protected-areas-raja-ampat\/","title":{"rendered":"Marine Protected Areas"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Raja Ampat\u2019s rich reefs and abundant seas provide a multitude of ecosystem services to local communities, along with a variety of domestic and international industries. From traditional use and food security, through to fisheries and a thriving tourism industry; a variety of stakeholders derive benefit from the regions marine resources.<\/p>\n

In order to protect these resources from inordinate exploitation and unsustainable use, and to ensure the long-term protection of marine environments, in 2004 the first of 9 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) was established. This network of MPAs now covers 2,000,109 hectares which together form the Raja Ampat Marine Park, under provincial and national jurisdiction.<\/p>\n

Each Marine Protected Area contains specific zones,<\/strong> which help to manage and protect natural resources by applying rules that define the activities that are permitted, the activities that are prohibited, and the activities that require a permit. Zones may also place restrictions on how some activities are conducted.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Zoning is an integral component of management of Marine Protected Areas; it is a key strategy in sustaining and improving reef health and resilience, leading to healthy and productive reefs throughout the region, which in turn provides food security, regional stability, and economic and health benefits to local communities and a range of local and international stakeholders.<\/p>\n

The Raja Ampat Marine Park Management and Zonation Plan 2019-2038<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>makes provision for a range of ecologically suitable commercial, recreational and research opportunities within Marine Protected Areas, along with supporting traditional usage and related practices.<\/p>\n

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Marine Protected Areas & their Zones:<\/h3>\n

What can you do where?<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ next_background_color=”#ffffff” admin_label=”Our Team” module_id=”marineprotectedareas” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”#ffffff 0%|rgba(255,255,255,0) 30%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”#ffffff” background_color_gradient_end=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” background_image=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TSP-Website-2024-Images-Portrait-50-Transparent-2.png” parallax=”on” custom_margin=”-50px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0|0px|150px|0px|false|false” bottom_divider_style=”ramp” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ custom_margin=”-50px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”-50px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/RAJA-AMPAT-MARINE-PARK-ZONING-TABLE.jpg” alt=”Raja Ampat Marine Park Marine Protected Areas Zones Zoning” title_text=”RAJA AMPAT MARINE PARK ZONING TABLE” show_in_lightbox=”on” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”10px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”4px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”ZONING IN RAJA AMPAT’S MARINE PROTECTED AREAS” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Click the table to enlarge\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

This Zoning table outlines which activities are permitted or forbidden in each of the MPA Zones.\u00a0 This zones are clearly marked on the corresponding maps for each of Raja Ampat’s Marine Protected Areas.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Aerial_Dampier_Strait_Reef_Comple510X735.jpeg” alt=”Aerial_Dampier_Strait_Reef_Complex.jpeg” title_text=”Aerial_Dampier_Strait_Reef_Comple510X735″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”DAMPIER STRAIT MPA: 353,531ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||2px|2px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Click Here for Zoning Map<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n

The Dampier Strait Marine Protected Area stands as the second most expansive MPA in Raja Ampat.\u00a0 Divided into three distinct regions this MPA includes the shoreline zones of Gam and Mansuar Islands, the coastal stretches of Batanta Island, and the coastal areas on the northern and northeastern parts of Salawati Island.<\/p>\n

Where Raja Ampat is at the heart of the Coral Triangle, the Dampier Strait is at the heart of Raja Ampat.\u00a0 <\/span>The strait benefits from strong oceanic currents that flow from the Pacific Ocean, coupled with upwellings of deep-sea waters that carry a wealth of nutrients into the strait’s waters. This creates an ideal habitat for marine species to prosper and for coral ecosystems to thrive.<\/p>\n

Celebrated for having the richest biodiversity across Raja Ampat, the Dampier Strait MPA is well known for its vivid coral reefs and the diverse marine life. The area serves as a magnet for large pelagic species such as sharks, tuna, snapper, grouper, barracuda, and trevally. Additionally, the Dampier Strait also provides a critical refuge and migratory pathway for various marine mammals, including whales, dolphins, and dugongs. It is notably acclaimed for it’s seasonal aggregations of both species manta ray.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Raja-Ampat-Karst-Islands-Penemu-Islands-Marine-Protected-Areas-510×735-1.jpg” alt=”Fam Islands MPA Marine Protected Area Raja Ampat | The SEA People | Conservation Raja Ampat” title_text=”Raja Ampat Karst Islands Penemu Islands Marine Protected Areas 510×735″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”FAM ISLANDS MPA: 357,383ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Click Here for Zoning Map<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Directly bordering the Halmahera Sea, the Fam Islands Marine Protected Area is distinguished by its small karst islands, and has risen in popularity and development as\u00a0 tourists visiting Raja Ampat are drawn by its stunning natural landscapes both above and beneath the sea’s surface.<\/p>\n

Among these mostly uninhabited Fami islands, three villages have been established: Fam Village on the smaller Fam island, along with Saukabu and Saupapir on the larger Fam island. In addition to these communities, there exist a few other smaller settlements functioning as business hubs or temporary housing for fisherman.<\/p>\n

The establishment of the Fam Islands MPA was initiated by the local community, aiming to conserve the rich marine life that thrives in the waters around these islands, and this area achieved a formal declaration of the Fam Islands MPA in January 2017.<\/p>\n

The coral reefs around the Fam Islands burst with life, hosting extensive stretches of hard coral and a variety of marine species. Predatory fish such as sharks and tuna, colorful reef fish like anthias and damsels, and ancient Tridacna Clams are found amidst the dense coral gardens. Surrounding waters serve as critical habitats for emblematic marine species, including sharks, Napoleon fish, two turtle species, both manta ray species, and marine mammals like whales and dolphins. The Fam Island MPA is also notable for housing the world’s largest land crab, the Coconut Crab (Birgus latro), a species under protection in Indonesia. Despite protective measures, there have been instances of Coconut Crabs being captured and sold, an illegal activity in Raja Ampat and across Indonesia, and punishable by law.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”-50px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Ayau-Asia-MPA-Raja-Ampat-Lagoon-Deep-Channels.jpg” alt=”Ayau Asia MPA Raja Ampat Lagoon Deep Channels” title_text=”Ayau Asia MPA Raja Ampat Lagoon Deep Channels” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”ASIA & AYAU ISLANDS MPA: 99,339ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Click Here for Zoning Map<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Adjacent to Palau and the Philippines, the Asia Ayau Islands mark some of Indonesia’s most distant territories, with the Asia Ayau Marine Protected Area\u00a0 encompassing 99,339 hectares.<\/p>\n

This MPA features a vast coral reef bank and atoll among its island surroundings. Celebrated for hosting the most significant grouper spawning grounds in Eastern Indonesia, this sensitive ecosystem is crucial for supplying grouper fish and eggs to the Maluku and Halmahera regions, as well as extensive portions of Papua’s Bird\u2019s Head Seascape.<\/p>\n

The Asia Ayau Islands Archipelago serves as a critical area for economically valuable fish species including napoleon wrasse, trevally, tuna, skipjack, and other pelagic species like mackerel.\u00a0 Additionally, this MPA\u00a0recognized for it’s significant, highly senstive sea turtle nesting sites, accommodating both the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea).\u00a0 The local waters are also home to Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris), and sperm whales (Khazalie et al., 2011).<\/p>\n

Being such a remote area, communities here depend upon a continued state of reef to survive, relying heaving on fishing to survive. Given it’s location and grouper spawnings, during the 1990s, Hong Kong vessels frequented Ayau to purchase live groupers directly from the locals for export – profiting greatly from the practice whilst depleting the seas for local people.\u00a0 This activity, along with destructive fishing practices like blast fishing and cyanide use, have largely ceased with the establishment of the Asia and Ayau MPA in 2007, although on occasion, illegal fishing vessels or practices occur the area.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Mayalabit-Bay-Raja-Ampat-Marine-Park-510×735-1.png” alt=”Mayalabit Bay Raja Ampat Marine Park Raja Ampat” title_text=”Mayalabit Bay Raja Ampat Marine Park Raja Ampat” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”MAYALIBIT BAY MPA: 40,451ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Click Here for Zoning Map<\/b><\/a><\/b><\/p>\n

Covering an expanse of 49,451ha, the Mayalibit Bay Marine Protected Area (MPA) nearly divides the island of Waigeo in half. The bay is distinguished by its extensive mangrove forests and seagrass beds, with seagrass extending about 70 meters from the mangrove edges to the shoreline. While the presence of hard corals is limited, the bay is thought to be a crucial habitat for\u00a0 economically valuable marine life such as mackerel, rabbitfish, shrimp, trevally, snapper and mud crab (Scylla), making it a critical area for marine biodiversity and conservation.<\/p>\n

This area is markedly different from the more well known areas of Raja Ampat; a narrow mouth opens into a vast, cliff lined bay, containing large networks of mangrove and seagrass and surrounded by dense, primary rainforest. Rivers and inlets snake their way through the forest, which can occasionally be followed to their source.<\/p>\n

Mayalibit Bay is considered the ancestral home of the Maya people, the indigenous inhabitants of Raja Ampat, residing in 11 villages and 1 hamlet within the bay.<\/p>\n

Mayalibit Bay was officially designated as a Marine Protected Area on November 15,\u00a0 2006, following a customary declaration by the Waifoi village community, and was the first MPA within Raja Ampat.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Kofiau-Boo-Marine-Protected-Area-Raja-Ampat-B.jpg” alt=”Mayalabit Bay Raja Ampat Marine Park Raja Ampat” title_text=”Mayalabit Bay Raja Ampat Marine Park Raja Ampat” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”KOFIAU BOO ISLANDS MPA: 148,979ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

<\/b><\/a>Click Here for Zoning Map<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

The Kofiau-Boo Islands Marine Protected Area (MPA), situated at Raja Ampat’s western frontier, encompasses an area of 148,979 hectares. This MPA is home to 44 islets in two clusters: the eastern Kofiau Islands and the western Boo Islands, together constituting the Kofiau District.<\/p>\n

Renowned for its rich diversity of coral species, the area boasts an average of 292 coral species per site, showcasing an exceptional level of biodiversity for islands of its size. Coral reefs span 13,800 hectares within the MPA, while mangrove forests cover an additional 3,413 hectares.<\/p>\n

Beyond its coral and fisheries, the Kofiau-Boo Islands MPA serves as a vital migratory passage for various cetaceans and marine mammals, including sperm whales, killer whales, bryde whales, bottlenose dolphins, Indo-Pacific bottle-nosed dolphins, and dugongs.<\/p>\n

The indigenous population of the Kofiau-Boo Islands, descendants of the Betew Tribe, share linguistic and cultural ties with the Biak Tribe from the northern part of the Bird\u2019s Head Seascape. The primary sources of livelihood for these communities include fishing and seasonal agricultural activities such as copra production.<\/p>\n

In line with the broader Raja Ampat region’s practices, the local communities of the Kofiau-Boo Islands employ the traditional ‘Sasi’ resource management system. This method regulates the use of natural resources by permitting or prohibiting specific activities in designated areas to ensure sustainable management.<\/p>\n

This approach, complemented by No Take Zones and Utilisation Zones, plays a crucial role in the enhancement and stewardship of local fisheries and marine ecosystems.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”-50px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Northern-Misool-510×735-1.jpg” alt=”Northern Misool Raja Ampat” title_text=”Northern Misool Raja Ampat” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”NORTH MISOOL MPA: 313,708ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

Click for MPA Map<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

In March 2018, the North Misool Marine Protected Area was formally acknowledged as an MPA by the local community, in partnership with Yayasan Nazareth Papua and Conservation International.\u00a0 This endorsement reflected the shared vision of the Matbat and Matlou communities residing in North Misool’s nine villages, to designate 313,708 hectares of their marine territory as a conservation area.<\/p>\n

North Misool’s marine ecosystem, though less explored compared to other regions in Raja Ampat, has been recognized for its biodiversity. The area is frequented by marine mammals such as dolphins, Bryde\u2019s whales, orcas, and whale sharks. It’s also a critical habitat for sharks, manta rays, and notably, hosts significant populations of saltwater crocodiles in its northern rivers.<\/p>\n

A notable conservation effort in North Misool is the dugong surveillance program initiated in 2008 by Yayasan Nazareth Papua and the community, aimed at identifying and conserving dugong feeding areas. This initiative has grown into a broader conservation project, including patrols to monitor dugong populations.<\/p>\n

Although rich in biodiversity, North Misool faces challenges from illegal and destructive fishing practices, such as bomb and cyanide fishing, and the poaching of protected species. The area’s remoteness and limited access exacerbate governance and conservation challenges.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Misool-Raja-Ampat-Marine-Park-2.jpeg” alt=”Misool, Raja Ampat. Indonesia” title_text=”Misool, Raja Ampat. Indonesia” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”MISOOL ISLANDS MPA: 346,189ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Click For Zoning Map<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

The Misool Islands Marine Protected Area, positioned in Raja Ampat’s southernmost region, spans over 346,189 hectares.<\/p>\n

Renowned for its diverse marine life, the Misool Islands are especially famous for their flourishing soft coral ecosystems. The underwater landscape features rocky formations, coral pinnacles, and shelters teeming with a variety of marine life including enormous gorgonian sea fans, vibrant tunicates, swarms of jacks, barracudas, and even larger gatherings of fusiliers. Frequent sightings of groupers and reef sharks add to the area’s allure, alongside the mesmerizing presence of pygmy seahorses and diverse nudibranch species decorating the coral habitats.<\/p>\n

The richness and diversity of the reefs are attributed to the area’s proximity to the Ceram Trough’s deep waters, which facilitate nutrient upwelling from the Indonesian Throughflow moving south towards the Banda Sea.<\/p>\n

The MPA also features secluded beaches that are vital nesting sites for green and hawksbill turtles, regions frequented by aggregating manta rays, and river estuaries home to saltwater crocodiles.<\/p>\n

The Misool Islands are also home to abundant mangrove forests, including rare Bluewater Mangroves, which servei as critical habitats for various fish, shrimp, and crabs, crucial for local sustenance.<\/p>\n

In the early 2000s, the Misool Islands faced threats from destructive fishing methods. To combat this, a joint initiative in 2005 between the local community and Misool Eco Resort established the first No Take Zone. This effort has expanded into a comprehensive conservation program led by the Misool Foundation, working closely with the Raja Ampat Marine Park Authority to safeguard the area through regular patrols, radar, and drone surveillance, significantly increasing marine biomass and shark populations within the protected zones. This collaborative model, emphasizing sustainable tourism and the traditional ‘sasi’ practice, is crucial for the ongoing protection and management of the Misool Islands’ marine and terrestrial resources.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Mutus.jpg” alt=”Mutus Marine Protected Area Raja Ampat” title_text=”Mutus Marine Protected Area Raja Ampat” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”RAJA AMPAT ISLANDS & SURROUNDING SEAS MARINE RESERVE: 57,875ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Click Here for Zoning Map<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”” custom_margin_phone=”-50px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Wayag-510×735-1.jpg” alt=”Karst Islands Raja Ampat | Marine Protected Area” title_text=”Karst Islands Raja Ampat | Marine Protected Area” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” border_radii=”off|5px|5px||” border_width_all=”5px” border_color_all=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_toggle title=”WEST WAIGEO ISLANDS & SURROUNDING AREAS MARINE RESERVE: 271,630ha” open_toggle_text_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#000000″ title_font=”Oswald||||||||” title_font_size=”19px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”-30px||||false|false” border_radii=”off|||5px|5px” border_width_all=”0px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

<\/a>Click here for MPA Map<\/a><\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.24.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”A WORD ON VOLUNTEERING” module_id=”regulations” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ _module_preset=”default” da_popup_slug=”threatstoreef” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row admin_label=”Title Row” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.1″ text_font=”||||||||” header_font=”||||||||” header_2_font=”Lora|700|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ header_2_font_size=”42px” header_2_line_height=”1.5em” header_5_font=”Oswald|||on|||||” header_5_text_color=”#000000″ header_5_font_size=”20px” header_5_letter_spacing=”3px” header_5_line_height=”1.4em” text_orientation=”center” background_layout=”dark” module_alignment=”center” text_line_height_last_edited=”off|desktop” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Marine Protected Area Regulations<\/h2>\n

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To safeguard Raja Ampat’s unparalleled marine ecosystems, all individuals and organisations are required to adhere to the established Regulations and Codes of Conduct. These guidelines are essential for ensuring the sustainable management of Marine Protected Areas and the wider region, protecting the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life for generations to come.<\/p>\n

By following these regulations, we can help maintain sustainable fisheries, secure the food resources, culture and heritage for local communities, and support eco-tourism and other livelihoods that depend on the health of these ecosystems.<\/p>\n

For detailed information, please review the Regulations and Legal Framework below, which form the foundation of sustainable use and management within Raja Ampat Marine Park, as outlined in the Management and Zoning Plan – Raja Ampat Marine Protected Areas <\/a><\/span>2019-2038 <\/a><\/strong>and as supported by the Legal Framework.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Our Team” module_id=”protectedspecies” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_stops=”#ffffff 0%|rgba(255,255,255,0) 30%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”#ffffff” background_color_gradient_end=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” background_image=”https:\/\/theseapeople.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/TSP-Website-2024-Images-Portrait-50-Transparent-2.png” parallax=”on” custom_margin=”-10px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0|0px|150px|0px|false|false” bottom_divider_style=”ramp” bottom_divider_color=”#FFFFFF” da_popup_slug=”protectedspecies” da_disable_devices=”off|off|off” global_colors_info=”{}” da_is_popup=”off” da_exit_intent=”off” da_has_close=”on” da_alt_close=”off” da_dark_close=”off” da_not_modal=”on” da_is_singular=”off” da_with_loader=”off” da_has_shadow=”on”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.25.1″ header_font=”Lora||||||||” header_2_font=”Lora||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Permits\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n

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All tourists and visitors are required to purchase their Marine Park Entry Card<\/a> <\/strong>prior to entering.<\/p>\n

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All Vessels (commercial and recreational) must ensure they have the operational permits<\/a><\/strong> relevant to their activities within the Marine Park.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Zoning<\/strong><\/h2>\n

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Each Marine Protected Area contains specific Zones with rules that define the activities that are permitted, the activities that are prohibited, and the activities that require a permit.<\/p>\n

All individuals and organisations must abide by Zoning Regulations, <\/strong>please refer to the specific Zoning Maps <\/strong>for details relevant to each Protected Area.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Core Zone<\/span>: A conservation zone (a \u2018No-Go Zone\u2019) designated based on the highly ecological significant ecological value.\u00a0 <\/span>Access is granted only through restricted permit that covers limited purposes.<\/p>\n

Food Security and Tourism Zone<\/span>: Commonly known as a \u201cNo Take Zone\u201d.\u00a0 <\/span>All forms of fishing are prohibited within these Zones.\u00a0 <\/span>Food Security and Tourism Zones also accommodate sustainable tourism activities.<\/p>\n

Sasi and Traditional Utilisation Zone<\/span>: Zone specifically designated for the benefit of the local community\u00a0 <\/span>that supports local, sustainable fishing activities and cultural practices. Traditional Utilisation Zones also accommodate Sustainable Tourism Activities.<\/p>\n

Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture Zone<\/span>: Only limited commercial-scale fishing and aquaculture activities are allowed within this Zone, and are subject to sustainable management regulation. Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture Zones also accommodate sustainable tourism activities.<\/p>\n

Shipping Lanes<\/span>: This zone is devoted to shipping lines who must remain within the lanes at all times.<\/p>\n

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Prohibited Activities<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The following activities are strictly prohibited and considered violations against Raja Ampat Marine Park regulation.\u00a0 Conducting any of the activities listed below can result action against the perpetrator(s).\u00a0\u00a0Some activities, as identified,\u00a0are permitted under special Zoning, permit or quota regulation.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_margin=”-29px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”4.25.1″ toggle_font=”Lora||||||||” toggle_font_size=”18px” body_font=”Lora||||||||” body_font_size=”18px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Protected Species” open=”on” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ global_colors_info=”{}” toggle_font=”||||||||”]<\/p>\n

Raja Ampat Regency is a Shark Sanctuary<\/strong>, and all sharks are protected within its waters.\u00a0\u00a0The Marine Park also offers protection to a number ecologically and economically important ocean species including (but is not limited to) sawfish, guitarfish, wedgefish, shovelnose rays, mobular rays, cownose rays, devil rays, eagle rays, bull nose, mobular, bull ray, marble ray, and all marine mammals.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Both species of Manta Ray<\/strong> (M. birostris<\/em>\u00a0and M. alfrediei<\/em>), and all species of Sea Turtle<\/strong> also receive full protection status under the law of the Republic of Indonesia.<\/p>\n

Click Here for a full list of Protected Species<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

With respect to species listed as protected, any and all persons are prohibited to:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n